NEFJA presented its first scholarship to a Stetson University music student in May,1989. Since that time, scholarships have been presented each year to students enrolled in a Jazz studies program at a Florida College or University.
 
The candidates must have completed a minimum of 30 credits with at least a 3.0 grade point average, establish financial need, and submit references along with an essay regarding Jazz and their goals.
 
NEFJA scholarships have been presented to students attending Stetson University, Florida A & M University, Bethune Cookman College, Daytona Beach College (formerly DBCC) and the University of North Florida.